Al-Ahli SC have retained their continental crown after edging Japan’s Machida Zelvia in a dramatic AFC Champions League final, sealed by a stoppage-time goal on 25 April.
The Saudi side secured a 1-0 victory in the dying moments of the match, with Firas Al-Buraikan converting a decisive chance in the 96th minute. The goal came despite Al-Ahli being reduced to 10 men, capping a tense and closely contested final.
The decisive moment was orchestrated by Franck Kessié, whose influence proved crucial throughout the tournament. The midfielder broke through the opposition defence before delivering the assist that led to the winning goal, ensuring his team successfully defended their title.
Kessié’s contribution in the final added to an already impressive campaign, during which he scored three goals and played a commanding role in midfield. His performances earned him the tournament’s best player award, further underlining his importance to the Saudi club’s success.
The 29-year-old, who previously played for major European clubs including Barcelona and AC Milan, has now added another accolade to a career that already includes domestic league titles in Italy and Spain. He was also part of the Ivory Coast squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2023.
Al-Ahli’s victory came after a match marked by resilience and defensive discipline. Machida Zelvia pushed throughout the game, but were unable to capitalise on their numerical advantage in the closing stages. Instead, it was the Saudi champions who found the decisive breakthrough when it mattered most.
The late goal sparked celebrations among Al-Ahli players and supporters, as the club secured back-to-back AFC Champions League titles. The win further cements their status as one of the leading teams in Asian football.
For Kessié, the triumph represents another milestone in a career that continues to gather momentum. His individual recognition as the tournament’s best player reflects both his consistency and his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.
Attention now turns to the future, with the midfielder expected to play a key role for Ivory Coast in upcoming international competitions, including the 2026 World Cup.
